Things To Do
in Andoain

Small snacks served in bars—can range from simple anchovy-topped bread to elaborate creations; pintxo hopping is a must for tasting many flavors across the town.

Must-Try!

Salted cod prepared in a silky garlic-olive oil emulsion; you’ll find it in local restaurants and taverns focused on traditional Basque cuisine.

Txistorra is a thin, fast-cured sausage often grilled and served with bread; pair it with smoky Idiazabal sheep’s cheese, commonly available in markets and taverns.

A slightly fizzy, acidic white wine produced in the Basque Country—great with seafood and pintxos; available by the glass in many bars.

Small-town market selling fresh produce, cheeses and cured meats; great for picking up seasonal fruit, artisan bread and local specialties—ask vendors for recommendations.

Though not a single market, Andoain’s compact bar scene offers street-level, informal food: try standing at the bar for quick bites and social interaction.

A polite 'Hola' or the Basque 'Kaixo' works for casual encounters; friends often greet with two cheek kisses. Shake hands for first-time formal meetings and use polite phrases such as 'por favor' and 'gracias'.

Many locals speak both Spanish and Basque (Euskara). Showing respect for Basque identity and using a few Basque phrases is appreciated; when in doubt, Spanish is widely understood.

At busy bars, take a plate and pick pintxos from the counter or order at the bar; when paying, indicate drinks and consumed pintxos—ask if unsure. Avoid taking others’ items and be mindful of bar space during peak hours.

Basques are friendly but value privacy—keep noise to reasonable levels in residential areas, especially after 22:00. Respect local festival traditions and dress modestly in religious spaces.

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory in Spain. For casual bars and pintxos, rounding up or leaving small change is common; in restaurants, a 5–10% tip is nice for good service. Tipping taxi drivers and hotel porters with small sums is customary.

Cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted in shops, restaurants and hotels, though small vendors and market stalls may prefer cash—carry some euros for small purchases. Contactless payments and mobile wallets are increasingly supported.

Warm and generally pleasant with temperatures often in the low to mid 20s °C (70s °F). Expect more tourists on weekends and extended daylight for outdoor activities; pack a light jacket for coastal breezes and occasional showers.

Crisp air and colorful foliage in the surrounding hills make this a beautiful time for hiking. Rain becomes more frequent—bring waterproof layers—and many local festivals and seasonal produce markets occur.

Mild but wet: winters are cool, rarely extremely cold, with regular rain and cloudy skies; higher hills may see occasional snow. Good time for cozy meals, cider houses and quieter streets—bring warm, waterproof clothing.

Blossoming greenery and moderate temperatures make it ideal for outdoor pursuits. Trails can be muddy early in spring; pollen-sensitive visitors should note blooming seasons.

A network of forest trails and former railway routes through a green, narrow valley—excellent for varied hikes, waterfalls and peaceful woodland scenery.

Rolling hills, meadows and archaeological sites with several mapped routes and interpretive trails showcasing Basque rural landscapes.

Rocky ridges and dramatic granite landscapes near Irun—offers more challenging hikes and panoramic coastal-to-mountain views for experienced hikers.

Short drives yield famous promenades and cliffs—La Concha and surrounding coastal paths combine seaside scenery with urban attractions for flexible hiking options.

Long-established Basque households who maintain cultural traditions, language and community ties—many are active in local festivals and clubs.

Residents who commute to larger nearby cities, especially San Sebastián, for work—Andoain offers residential appeal for those working in urban centers.

As with many small towns in Spain, there is a significant older demographic, reflected in community services and quieter daytime rhythms.

Smaller groups from other parts of Spain, Latin America and North Africa contribute to a modest multicultural presence and workforce in the area.

Widely played and followed—local clubs and amateur teams are active and regional matches attract community support.

Traditional regional sport visible at local frontons and cultural events—an important part of Basque sporting heritage.

Road cycling and mountain biking are popular due to varied terrain; many locals cycle for commuting and recreation.

While not in Andoain itself, the nearby coast (San Sebastián and surrounding beaches) is a major surfing area attracting enthusiasts.

Vegetarian options are increasingly available—many pintxo bars offer vegetable or mushroom-based pintxos and regional cheeses. Explain your needs (in Spanish or Basque) and look for vegetable stews, grilled vegetables and salads; larger towns nearby (San Sebastián) offer more choice.

Vegan choices are more limited in small towns but possible—focus on vegetable dishes, salads, bread and market produce. Consider bringing snacks and check menus in advance.

Traditional Basque cuisine includes breads and fried items; ask staff about cross-contamination. Some restaurants can accommodate gluten-free requests, but it’s safer to plan ahead in smaller establishments.

Spanish is widely spoken—carry a note in Spanish (or Basque) describing your allergy to show to staff, especially for shellfish, nuts or dairy concerns.